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Nov 12, 2012 at 4:04 PMNov 12, 2012 at 4:06 PM

Voters pass boat tax amendmentThe people of Kansas have made a positive move by voting in favor of an amendment that will allow boats to be classified differently in our tax system.Currently boats are classified as other personal property, which means they are taxed at a much higher rate then many surrounding states.This vote will allow lawmakers to reduce taxes on boats and watercrafts.

Dog park passes first hurdleThe McPherson Planning Commission approved a special-use permit for a proposed dog park Tuesday.Dog lovers have been trying for years to get a dog park built in the community, and this an important first step in making a dog park a reality.The proposed site is on city land southwest of Centennial Road and Avenue A.The proposed location will provide a safe place for dogs to play off a leash while it is far enough away from any residential areas as to not disturb neighbors.The McPherson Dog Park Association still needs significant funds before construction can begin on the park.Consider joining the organization or making a donation, which can be done by contacting the McPherson Dog Park Association at PO Box 1302, McPherson, KS 67460.

Pastors help to develop police chaplain programPastor Dick Reynolds of First Presbyterian Church and Martin Coons of Kings Hiway Baptist Church have been working together with city officials to develop a police chaplain program.Although it's in its beginning stages, the program aims to provide support for officers in their daily grind, as well as counseling for individuals in difficult situations.Police officers have one of the toughest jobs in our community. These chaplains can be the officers confidants, as well as assist the officers in helping residents who have the been the victims of crime or tragedy.It looks to be an excellent program, and we wish all involved success.

Children learn about elections through mock votingThanks to all the teachers and students who helped make mock voting possible for USD 418 elementary students Tuesday.The students learned about the candidates and the election process, and then cast ballots for their favorite candidates.Students learned first hand about the voting process and were excited to be able to participate in an activity normally reserved for adults.

Operation Warmth helps with utility billsOperation Warmth is in its 30th year of assisting area residents with utility bills.The program is a last resort for individuals and families who can't pay their electric bills.So far, 600 families have received assistance from Operation Warmth since its beginnings.Funds for the program are obtained through fundraisers, such as cookbook sales, golf tournaments and American Legion Family Nights. Tax-deductible donations also may be made to the city of McPherson by individuals, churches and businesses.Thanks to the Board of Public Utilities and those who make this program possible.

Inman goes to curbside recyclingInman will be the first city in McPherson County to have curbside recycling. Recycling makes sense not only environmentally but financially.Less garbage means lower disposal costs. It also means landfills, which are costly to build and maintain, will fill up slowly.Because of the conveniences of service, we hope the curbside recycling program will encourage more people to recycle and to recycle more material.We also hope the Inman program will eventually be expanded to other communities in the county, including McPherson.